Amway founder, philanthropist Richard DeVos dies at age 92

ADA, Mich. -- Billionaire Richard DeVos, whose family bought the Orlando Magic in 1991, has died. He was 92.

DeVos was the co-founder of direct-selling giant Amway and father-in-law of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos.

Family spokesman Nick Wasmiller says DeVos died Thursday at his Ada, Michigan, home due to complications from an infection.

"One of the NBA's longest-serving owners, Rich DeVos formed a deep bond with the city of Orlando, and whether hosting the Finals or All-Star festivities, he was always incredibly welcoming to the NBA family," commissioner Adam Silver said in a statement. "And on a personal note, I am grateful for his friendship and counsel over the past 25 years. We send our heartfelt condolences to Rich's family and friends and the entire Magic organization."

DeVos was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He started Amway along with friend, Jay Van Andel, in 1959. DeVos served as company president until 1993.

"Mr. DeVos' boundless generosity, inspirational leadership and infectious enthusiasm will always be remembered,'' Magic CEO Alex Martins said in a statement. "Simply, he was the team's No. 1 cheerleader and the best owner that a Magic fan could ever want for their team. When the DeVos family purchased the Magic, his vision was that the team and organization would serve as a platform to improve the central Florida community."

According to a recent estimation by Forbes, the Magic are valued at $1.225 billion, which is ranked 19 out of the 30 NBA franchises. DeVos had a net worth of $5.4 billion, according to Forbes.

DeVos and his late wife, Helen, donated to Christian churches and ministries and various other causes through their Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation. He also helped in the revitalization of downtown Grand Rapids, including the restoration of what now is the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.

Martins said several years ago that the DeVos family restructured its ownership group. Rich and Helen's four children own the largest stakes in the franchise. Their son Dan is the team's chairman and is the franchise's representative on the NBA's board of governors.

DeVos was a major supporter of the Republican Party and was appointed by President Ronald Reagan to the Presidential Commission on AIDS in 1987.